International Relations: Neo-Realism
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Questions and Answers

What is a key characteristic of the international system according to neo-realism?

  • A system dominated by a single powerful state
  • A system governed by international law
  • An anarchic system with no overarching authority (correct)
  • A centralized world government

    • What is the primary focus of neo-realism?

  • The influence of ideology on state behavior
  • The importance of international organizations
  • The role of individual leaders in international relations
  • The distribution of power and the constraints of the international system (correct)

    • According to neo-realism, what motivates states to balance against a powerful state?

  • A need to maximize their security (correct)
  • A goal to dominate the international system
  • A desire to promote peace and stability
  • A obligation to protect human rights

    • What is the role of states in neo-realism?

    <p>They are the primary actors in international relations</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What assumption do neo-realists make about state behavior?

    <p>States are rational actors</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Who is often considered the founding father of neo-realism?

    <p>Kenneth Waltz</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the title of Kenneth Waltz's seminal work on neo-realism?

    <p>The Theory of International Politics</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the central argument of neo-realism?

    <p>The distribution of power in the international system is key to understanding state behavior</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Study Notes

    Neo-Realism in International Relations

    • Neo-realism, also known as structural realism, is a prominent theory in International Relations that emerged as a response to classical realism.
    • It focuses on the structural factors in the international system that influence state behavior.

    Key Points of Neo-Realism

    • The international system is anarchic, meaning there is no overarching world government or authority to enforce rules.
    • States are sovereign and act in their own self-interest.
    • The balance of power among states is crucial, and states seek to maximize their security and will balance against any power that threatens their security.
    • Neo-realism places a strong emphasis on the role of states as the primary actors in international relations, with other factors like ideology or individual leaders considered secondary.
    • States are assumed to be rational actors, making decisions based on a careful calculation of costs and benefits.

    Key Thinkers and Proponents of Neo-Realism

    • Kenneth Waltz is considered the founding father of neo-realism, and his book "Theory of International Politics" (1979) is a seminal work in this field.
    • Waltz focused on the structure of the international system as the primary determinant of state behavior.

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    Description

    Explore the key concepts of neo-realism, a prominent theory in International Relations, including anarchy, self-help, and the influence of structural factors on state behavior.

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